The creative connection of Joaquin Phoenix and director Todd Haynes was supposed to have a great role in his next film, but it seems that’s all over. Production on Haynes’ next film was supposed to begin in the next few days, but Phoenix suddenly canceled filming in Mexico and now production is halted with no plans for a sequel.
According to IndieWire, Phoenix pulled out of Haynes’ untitled gay romance drama just five days before filming was due to begin. Filming was set to begin in Guadalajara, Mexico, but the actor left the project while still in Los Angeles. To make matters even more interesting, Phoenix actually co-wrote the film and developed it alongside Haynes and Jon Raymond. The project is set to push the boundaries of an NC-17 rating for the detective period film set in the 1930s.
The project depended on the participation of Joaquin Phoenix
To make matters worse, Phoenix’s name was crucial to the film’s financing. The project was tempting when sales began in the run-up to the European Film Market in February, but by early July things had started to go downhill. According to Haynes, while promoting his latest film, May December In 2023, Phoenix was the one who kept pushing the film’s explicit content, and everything seemed to be driven by his involvement. A reason for the actor’s exit was not given, but he has made the production financially responsible for everyone involved. This means that people who planned to work on the film still have to be paid.
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Just because Phoenix dropped out doesn’t mean the backers and crew have to work without compensation. MK2 Films, who backed the project, currently have no plans to replace Phoenix and the main focus is on taking care of all necessary parties financially. Danny Ramirez, who starred in Captain America: Brave New World next year, was cast as the romantic co-lead in Phoenix in July before filming was set to begin, and likely turned down other jobs to appear in the film. Everyone who was involved in the project and invested their time and money will likely get something in return, but that doesn’t make the situation any less stressful.
What’s next, Phoenix will be seen in Joker: Foil A Deuxwill be released in theaters on October 4, and he recently completed production of Ari Aster’s Eddington back in May. Haynes is expected to focus on directing the limited series, Trustin which he will once again work with his screenwriting partner Jon Raymond and the leading actress Kate Winslet, who already starred in Mildred Pierce.
